Zenobians take big step forward with exciting show

Dubai: The fledgling Damascus Zenobians club took a big step forward in terms of development with a series of promising performances at the Dubai Sevens.

In total, the Syrian outfit won two and lost two of their matches to return home with heads held high despite many of their players being very new to the sport.

The Zenobians were formed 18 months ago by enthusiastic French and British expats but rugby has proved to be so popular that they are now significantly outnumbered by Syrians, who are keen to make their mark.

The club was originally based at a local school before the British ambassador became involved as president and access to the 15,000-capacity international Tishreen Stadium opened up.

That, in turn, helped bring the Zenobians to the attention of young professionals and students also using the facilities, and their curiosity led to people wanting to find out more about the sport.

Roddy Drummond, the club coach, said: "Football and basketball are very popular in Syria but if guys don't make it as professionals there's hardly anywhere for them to go.

"We've been fortunate to pick up people who already have running and handling skills as well as a desire to play sport while they're also very keen to learn."

Internal tournament

An internal tournament last month featured around 50 mini players, four teams playing sevens and 30 adults taking part in touch rugby.

The Arabian Gulf union are also doing their bit to help by supplying referees when needed. And a coaching course held before the last Beirut 10s saw five Syrians, four Jordanians and one Lebanese reach level one qualification.

Jordan, the Amman Guardians, Beirut Phoenicians and Jamhor Lions are set to attend a tournament in Damascus in March while there is an open invitation to other sides from the region and wider afield to come on tour.

Drummond added: "It's a great place to visit. You can eat and drink as much as you like for buttons and we put on a great tournament."

On the safety issues of visiting the capital, he clarified: "I think it's as safe there as it is here in Dubai."